Minnesota at Dallas

Minnesota might not have a dazzling record, but they are playing excellent hockey so far. They are #9 in the NHL in goals scored and #9 in goals allowed with one of the best penalty killing units in the league. The Wild is 5-2 against the Western Conference. They face a Dallas team that doesn't play any defense at #27 in goals allowed while getting outscored on the season. By contrast, Minnesota is +9 in goals. The Stars have been poor at home with a 1-3-4 mark and a five-game losing streak. Stars' forward Patrick Eaves' status is in question after leaving Thursday's game with a lower-body injury. Dallas is on a 2-7 run and the Stars are 3-10 in their last 13 vs. the Western Conference. Take Minnesota.